Tripod legs with 4 sections
Does anyone have experience with a 4-section tripod? Is it stable?
I currently have a Manfrotto 190XB, which weighs 4 pounds, supports 11 pounds and folds to 21 inches. I never use it with a lens longer than 400.
The only thing wrong with it is - several of my friends are consistently telling me to get a heavier, sturdier, taller tripod. It's good to listen to your friends, and that includes when they nag.
I have a requirement, though, that makes this a bit difficult - the tripod has to fit into carry-on luggage, so it must fold up to 22-23 inches maximum. Why carry on? Because I'm concerned that a trip will be ruined if I check any of my critical gear and it gets lost in transit.
I'm looking at the Manfrotto 055CXPRO4. Although it's about the same weight as the 190XB, it supports 17.6 pounds, where the 190XB supports 11. Also, the 055CXPRO4 is 6 inches taller than the 190XB without the center column extended.
Any suggestions, please? Comments appreciated.